Description
Delicious and healthy zucchini brownies made with whole wheat flour, natural sweeteners, and loads of shredded zucchini for added moisture and nutrients. This guilt-free dessert offers a rich chocolate flavor with a fudgy texture, perfect for a wholesome treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup finely shredded zucchini (excess moisture removed)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent the brownies from sticking and make removal easier.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely shredded zucchini (make sure to squeeze out excess moisture), unsweetened applesauce, maple syrup, coconut sugar, the large egg, and vanilla extract. Stir them together until the mixture is well blended and uniform in texture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agent and dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender and moist.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: If using, gently fold in the dark chocolate chips to incorporate some melty chocolate pockets within the brownies.
- Pour and Spread Batter: Pour the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and use a spatula to smooth the top for even baking.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs for fudginess.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 9 squares and serving. Cooling helps set the texture and makes slicing easier.
Notes
- For extra fudgy brownies, refrigerate them before slicing to firm up the texture.
- You can substitute honey for maple syrup if preferred, adjusting sweetness to taste.
- All-purpose flour can be used instead of whole wheat flour for a lighter texture.
- Make sure to thoroughly remove excess moisture from the zucchini using a clean towel or cheesecloth to prevent soggy brownies.
